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The 2025 Clue Awards, held during the annual CrimeCon event in Denver, celebrated storytelling excellence in the true crime genre. Hosted by Ice-T, this year’s ceremony recognized productions across television series, documentaries, and podcasts. Notable winners included acclaimed shows such as MGM+’s “Godfather of Harlem” and Netflix’s “American Murder: Gabby Petito,” reflecting the growing interest in true crime narratives.
Honoring Victims and Investigators
Among the poignant moments of the evening were tributes to the families of Liberty German and Abigail Williams, victims of the Delphi murders. Their families received recognition, underscoring the significance of storytelling that honors those affected by crime. Additionally, Lt. Jerry Holeman of the Indiana State Police was awarded the prestigious 2025 Crimefighter of the Year award, presented by former awardee John Walsh. This accolade highlights the critical role of law enforcement in unraveling complex criminal cases.
Sgt. Julissa Trapp of the Anaheim Police Department was also recognized, named 2025’s “America’s Greatest Detective” for her pivotal work on the serial killer case involving Steven Dean Gordon and his accomplice Franc Cano. This acknowledgment underscores her dedication and the vital contributions of law enforcement professionals in true crime.
Creative Achievements in True Crime
This year marked a milestone as scripted series were included in the Clue Awards, demonstrating the evolving landscape of true crime storytelling. “Godfather of Harlem” secured the award for Outstanding Scripted Series, reinforcing the effectiveness of scripted narratives in conveying the complexities of real-life crime stories.
The event also highlighted the impact of podcasts, with “Crime Weekly,” hosted by Derrick Levasseur and Stephanie Harlowe, winning the title of “Creator of the Year” based on fan votes. This recognition celebrates their storytelling approach and the increasing popularity of true crime podcasts.
A Comprehensive List of Winners
The Clue Awards recognized numerous categories, showcasing talent and creativity in the true crime field. The winners included:
- Outstanding Docuseries
- Outstanding Episodic Series
- Outstanding Scripted Series
- Outstanding Documentary Film
- True Crime Book of the Year
The Clue Awards serve to acknowledge excellence and responsible storytelling in true crime across television, film, podcasts, and literature. As CrimeCon continues to grow as a platform for enthusiasts and creators, events like the Clue Awards reinforce the significance of ethical and impactful storytelling in the true crime genre.